THE case of a nurse who was bullied has today prompted a leading lawyer to warn East Lancashire employers they face costly legal battles if a bullying claim is brought against them.
Elaine Hurn, managing partner at Blackburn-based law firm Taylors, is urging employers to make sure they have a clear policy on how to deal with harassment or be prepared to face claims.
Sylvia Johnstone, 52, of Whalley, suffered bullying at the hands of of her wards sister at Blackburn Royal Infirmary, an employment tribunal decided last week.
She was awarded £32,000 compensation after it was found she had been constructively dismissed.
Mrs Hurn said: "The nurse who worked at Blackburn Royal Infirmary was awarded £32,000 at a tribunal because it had found she had been constructively dismissed after a period of harassment and bullying.
"Businesses must have procedures in place that can deal with claims of harassment effectively.
"Unfortunately, in this case the inquiry was overseen by a manager who was supported by the individual who had been harassing the nurse.
"If at a tribunal the claimant can show that the complaints procedure was unfair and had been influenced, then an employer will almost certainly pay compensation to the claimant."
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